Day 7 Rest day around Tintern

As this is a Sunday I made it my rest day. Walked down to Tintern, to cross the Wye on a bridge I discovered had only opened the weekend before after being restored. Walked around the loop in the river upstream to attend the morning service at St.Michaels Church in Wales (CinW) church. Trinity Sunday sermon given by retired minister who in the past had been vicar of the church. In conversation afterwards, I learned that at the formation of the Church in Wales, in the early 20th century under David Lloyd George's government, churches on the border could elect to remain Church of England or be part of the new Church of Wales. Apparently the next church upstream is one that elected to remain CofE.

Creating CinW involved creating a new diocese (Monmouth), which required a new Cathedral. Apparently restoring Tintern Abbey was considered, but in the end a large church in Newport became the Cathedral.

Continued upstream on the Wye valley walk to cross the Brockweir bridge to the village of Brockweir. Saw a pub being restored to as it was hundreds of years ago. Also a Moravian church.

Back across the bridge to the west side, I returned south/downstream on the track of an old railway, now the Wye Valley walk. Passed a few sculptures on way to Tintern Station. The station has been restored and includes a tea room where I lunched and visited the museum. This told a fascinating story of a formerly very industrial Wye valley. Initially served by river boats, latterly by the railway.

Strolled further downstream to Tintern visiting the few shops, hostelries and cafés for Ice cream. Finally walked back to the Brockweir Moravian Church in Brockweir for the evening service before returning to campsite.

Amazed to see only 11 pitches where there were about 40 this morning. A dramatic effect of the end of school half term holiday.

Long chat with friendly wardens Paul and Donna. Paul thought I looked younger than I am. I was forced to agree with him!

6 miles from Beeches Farm to Tintern and back completed at end of 7 day of walking. Despite it being a rest day!
Total miles so far : 73.5
Weather: Sunshine, glorious and very hot
Number of people passed : HundredsLue lisää